Florida Teens Arrested for Viral ‘Door Kick Challenge’

Three teenagers were arrested in Florida on November 23 for taking part in a viral trend known as the “Door Kick Challenge.” The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJSO) stated that the teens were charged with loitering. Their ages are 13 and 14.

A video from a home’s security camera captured the incident, showing the homeowner alerting police about someone attempting to kick in the door. The homeowner mentioned to the dispatcher that the group appeared unarmed; however, her husband was armed just in case they returned.

When law enforcement arrived, they found the teenagers dressed in black and hiding nearby. The deputies raised questions about their age and intentions, prompting one of the teens to respond, “Fourteen,” while another amusingly miscounted and said, “Thirteen.” One officer dramatically emphasized the danger of their actions, warning them that homeowners might react violently, believing they were facing a serious threat.

The SJSO indicated that the teens had apparently caused damage to one of the front doors while trying to enact the challenge. As a result, they not only faced charges for loitering but one of them was also charged with criminal mischief for the damage inflicted.

The Sheriff’s Office cautioned that this “challenge” is not just a harmless prank. They highlighted that similar incidents could have dire consequences, especially considering how homeowners might respond if they feel threatened. SJSO urged parents to discuss this behavior with their kids, making it clear that participation in such challenges could lead to serious legal repercussions.

This Door Kick Challenge, which has been circulating on social media, typically involves teens aggressively knocking on doors and then fleeing. While some might view it as an updated version of the classic “Ding Dong Ditch,” it often leads to unintended property damage, causing police to express concerns over the potential harmful effects of such pranks.